While Aaron Rodgers is unquestionably one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, there were other reasons that contributed to his 2014 MVP campaign. Chief among them were his highly productive wide receivers Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb.
Last year Nelson was re-upped on a four-year, $39 million extension, and now Cobb is reportedly seeking $9 million a season. Today marks the first day teams can use their franchise tag-last year's tag for wide receivers was $12.3 million, the third-priciest position.
Last season was a career year for Cobb at the best possible time. He answered questions about his ability to stay healthy, suiting up for all 16 of the Packers' games and setting career-bests for receptions (91), yards (1,287) and touchdowns (12). The 12 touchdowns tied Cobb with two other receivers for fourth in the NFL, and the 91 grabs tied him with Odell Beckham Jr. for ninth.
Cobb's numbers are difficult to argue against, but he will be in a pool that is very deep with upper tier talent. Dez Bryant, who led the NFL with 16 touchdown catches in 2014 is a free agent, as well as Demaryius Thomas, who placed second behind Antonio Brown in both receptions (111) and yards (1,619). Thomas was also tied for 10th in the NFL in touchdown catches with 10.
The Packers are said to be hopeful to work out a long-term deal with Cobb, who said during the season he wants to be a Packer for his whole career.
"I hope I can say I'm a Packer for life, but with this business you never know. I'm trying to keep that in my head, but I definitely would love to be here for my whole career," Cobb said.
"I love the city of Green Bay. I love the people here. It's a very close-knit community to the organization and the fan base is unbelievable. The way we do things here is great. I definitely think it fits me and my personality, who I am as a person."
[ESPN]
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